Details

A very rare find, these chisels are made from the finest white paper steel wrapped with Namaji Steel that comes from old railway rails that are very hard to find. Most have been recycled, so it is rare to find this virgin material. It has a very characteristic texture, best described as molten steel, and a slight hint of silver color. The octagonal ferrule is unique to these chisels, which have dark sandalwood handles that feel comfortable in your hand.

The Matsumura Family has been producing woodworking chisels for well over 200 years. Mr. Shigezo Matsumura began his apprenticeship at the age of 15 and exhibited such skill that by the age of 25 he was able to open his own workshop. For over 60 years, first as an apprentice and now as a true Master of Blacksmiths, Mr. Matsumura has made chisels one at a time in the old tradition, preferring to use charcoal instead of gas in the forging and tempering process, because of its “soft heat,” and only the finest white and blue steels for the cutting edges, which are laminated to wrought iron for strength. All cutting edges are tempered to HRC64 and sharpened for immediate use. Note: Mr. Matsumura operates a one-man shop and personally makes each tool, with an occasional assist from his wife.

Chisels are available in 9mm, 12mm, 15mm, 18mm, 24mm, 30mm, 36mm, and 42mm sizes and a five-piece set (9mm, 12mm, 18mm, 24mm, and 30mm sizes).